Kenya’s National Assembly has approved the Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2024, a legislation that mandates the creation of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian walkways on Kenyan roads. Sponsored by Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda, the Bill seeks to enhance safety and order for non-motorised road users.

Key Provisions of the Bill

  • Dedicated Infrastructure: Road authorities including KeNHA, KeRRA, KURA, and county governments will be required to incorporate cycling lanes, pedestrian walkways, and crossings into road design and construction.
  • Separated Facilities: Cycling lanes will be on-road lanes reserved exclusively for bicycles and wheelchairs, while cycling tracks will be physically separated from motorised traffic.
  • Enforcement: Traffic police will have authority to enforce regulations, penalising motorists or boda boda riders who unlawfully use or obstruct these designated spaces.

Clarifying Penalties

Contrary to some reports, the Bill does not introduce a new Ksh1 million fine. That figure originated from an earlier 2022 proposal. The current legislation allows for penalties up to Ksh100,000 or imprisonment for up to one year under existing laws, but actual enforcement and fines will depend on specific regulations once the Bill becomes law.

Benefits for Cyclists and Pedestrians

MP Lesuuda, who is also a cyclist, highlighted the dangers faced by riders on Nairobi’s roads, including risks of being sideswiped or pushed off the road. The Bill aims to provide safer, clearly designated spaces for cyclists and pedestrians, including those using mobility-assistance devices.

Pedestrians will benefit from dedicated walkways and crossings, reducing the need to walk alongside fast-moving vehicles and discouraging motorists from using these areas for parking or driving.

Implementation and Next Steps

The Bill still requires presidential assent before becoming law. Its rollout will depend on road authorities and counties, available funding, and infrastructure considerations. A transition period is expected for existing roads.

Lesuuda emphasised that enforcement is crucial to the law’s success, stating that respecting pedestrian and cycling spaces is fundamental to road safety.

The new law represents a significant step toward recognising and protecting non-motorised road users, demanding that all road users respect designated spaces or face legal consequences.